The human body uses fat for various purposes. It is fuel for the body, and it provides warmth. Fat also has many uses in cosmetic treatments. Transferring fat from one area to another can produce fuller-looking lips, add volume to sunken, scarred areas, or be used in breast augmentation procedures. The uses for fat in the field of plastic surgery are practically endless. Using a natural filler, such as a patient’s body fat, can help produce the best possible results from a cosmetic surgery procedure.
Led by board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Bahair Ghazi, Dr. John D. Symbas, and Dr. Kendall Brooks, our surgeon-directed team offers specialized expertise in body contouring, including autologous fat transfer. With advanced training from institutions such as Emory University and the University of Virginia, our surgeons use refined harvesting and grafting techniques to restore volume, soften contours, and enhance natural symmetry. Supported by a skilled clinical staff and working within our AAAHC-accredited facility, the team emphasizes safety, precision, and long-lasting fat transfer results tailored to each patient’s goals.
VIDEO: ABOUT BODY SCULPTING
Autologous Fat Transfer
Fat transfers, also known as fat grafting, are a very popular procedure because they remove fat from a location where it is not needed or wanted and transfer it to another area to add volume. The techniques used to perform this procedure can vary, but the results are the same: a fuller, better-looking body region.
Oftentimes, the fat is harvested from an area using liposuction techniques. In liposuction, a small cannula is used to loosen and suck away the fat that will be used in the augmentation procedure. The fat must then be processed for use in the new area. It is cleaned and purified to make it safe for reinjection. While fat transfers may sound like an involved process, for the patient, this process is smooth and minimally invasive. To ensure optimal, long-lasting results, multiple treatments may be necessary.
Ideal Candidates for Autologous Fat Transfer
Autologous fat transfer is well-suited for patients seeking natural volume enhancement using their own tissue. Ideal candidates include individuals with sufficient donor fat who prefer a non‑synthetic augmentation method and seek subtle contour improvements in areas such as the face, breasts, hands, or buttocks. Candidates should be in good overall health, maintain a stable weight, and have realistic expectations about the extent of achievable enhancement. A comprehensive consultation helps ensure the treatment aligns with each patient’s goals.
Benefits of Autologous Fat Transfer
Fat transfer offers several advantages that synthetic fillers and implants cannot match. Key benefits include:
- Natural‑looking volume created from the patient’s own fat.
- Long‑lasting results due to fat cell survival and integration.
- Improved skin texture and quality thanks to regenerative properties in adipose tissue.
- Body contour refinement in donor areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks.
- Reduced risk of allergic reactions or rejection.
These benefits make autologous fat transfer a versatile option for patients seeking balanced, organic rejuvenation.
Common Areas Treated With Fat Transfer
Fat grafting can enhance multiple regions of the face and body. Common treatment areas include:
- Cheeks, temples, and under‑eye hollows for facial rejuvenation.
- Breasts for subtle volume and improved symmetry.
- Buttocks for shaping and fullness.
- Hands to restore youthful contour.
- Depressed scars or contour irregularities.
Each treatment area requires a precise technique to ensure optimal fat survival and natural‑appearing results.
How Fat Transfer Works
Autologous fat transfer involves three essential stages. First, fat is gently harvested from a donor site using refined liposuction techniques. Next, the fat is carefully purified to isolate healthy, viable cells. Finally, the processed fat is reinjected in small, layered amounts to achieve smooth, natural shaping. This method supports long‑term retention and allows surgeons to tailor volume distribution with exceptional accuracy. The process is minimally invasive and offers the dual benefit of body contouring and targeted enhancement.
Recovery Expectations After Fat Transfer
While recovery varies by treatment area, most patients experience mild swelling, bruising, and soreness at both donor and injection sites. Typical recovery milestones include:
- Return to light activities within a few days.
- Visible reduction in swelling over two to three weeks.
- Gradual refinement of contour as transferred fat stabilizes.
- Long‑term results becoming apparent over several months.
Following all post‑treatment instructions supports healthy fat cell survival and the most refined, lasting outcome.
Why Choose Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists
Choosing the right team for autologous fat transfer is essential when restoring volume, improving contour, or enhancing natural definition. Our practice provides surgeon-led care grounded in advanced grafting techniques and a deep understanding of facial and body anatomy.
Here’s what sets our fat transfer team apart:
Our goal is to help you achieve subtle, natural fullness that enhances your features and complements your overall silhouette.
Schedule a Consultation
Ready to enhance your contours and achieve a natural, balanced look?
Contact Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists to schedule your consultation at our Alpharetta office (404) 255-2975 or Buckhead office (404) 343-0897 today.